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The 2026 FIFA World Cup served up one of the most dramatic nights in tournament history as two European heavyweights — the Netherlands and Germany — were knocked out on the same evening during the Round of 32 knockout stage.
What Happened on June 29?
🇲🇦 Morocco 1-1 Netherlands (Morocco wins 5-4 on penalties)
The Dutch came into the match as favorites, but Morocco held firm through 120 minutes of tense football. After a 1-1 stalemate, the game went to penalties — and the Netherlands paid the price for costly misses.
Ismael Saibari stepped up to convert the decisive spot-kick, sending Morocco into ecstasy and the Oranje packing. Morocco now advances to face co-hosts Canada in the Round of 16.
🇵🇾 Paraguay 1-1 Germany (Paraguay wins on penalties)
In an even bigger shock, Germany lost their first-ever World Cup penalty shootout. The four-time champions had never been beaten from the spot in World Cup history — until tonight.
Paraguay’s Canale and Gill were the heroes, holding their nerve while Germany’s usually clinical takers faltered. The 1-1 draw after extra time set the stage for an unforgettable shootout that ended with Germany eliminated in the Last 32.
🇧🇷 Brazil 1-0 Japan (Martinelli 90+1′)
Elsewhere, Brazil needed a stoppage-time winner from Gabriel Martinelli to break Japanese hearts. The Arsenal forward struck in the 1st minute of added time to send the Seleção through to the Round of 16.
🇨🇦 Canada 1-0 South Africa
Host nation Canada continued their dream run as Stephen Eustáquio scored a late winner to edge past a stubborn South Africa side. Canada’s reward? A last-16 clash with Morocco in what promises to be a massive moment for Canadian soccer.
Upcoming Knockout Matches
| Match | Stage | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Canada vs. Morocco | Round of 16 | July 2 |
| Brazil vs. TBD | Round of 16 | July 2-3 |
| England vs. DR Congo | Round of 32 | June 30 |
| France vs. Sweden | Round of 32 | June 30 |
| Côte d’Ivoire vs. Norway | Round of 32 | June 30 |
Key Takeaways
- Germany’s penalty curse broken: The four-time champions had won all 4 of their previous World Cup shootouts before tonight
- African football on the rise: Morocco and DR Congo both advancing deep into the tournament
- Co-hosts delivering: Canada’s win keeps the host nation dream alive
- Brazil grinding: Even without Neymar, Brazil finds a way to win
- European exodus: Belgium already in crisis, now Netherlands and Germany eliminated — Europe’s grip on the World Cup is slipping
FAQ
Q: Has Germany ever lost a World Cup penalty shootout before?
A: No. Before tonight, Germany had won all 4 of their World Cup penalty shootouts — 1982 semi vs France, 1986 quarter vs Mexico, 1990 semi vs England, and 2006 quarter vs Argentina. This was their first-ever defeat from the spot.
Q: Who scored the winning penalty for Morocco?
A: Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot-kick to send Morocco through 5-4 on penalties.
Q: When is the Canada vs. Morocco Round of 16 match?
A: The match is scheduled for July 2, 2026. It will be a historic moment for both nations — Canada as a co-host and Morocco as the first African team to reach this stage in 2026.
Q: Can England still be eliminated?
A: England faces DR Congo in their Round of 32 match on June 30. DR Congo showed their quality by coming from behind to beat Uzbekistan in the group stage, so England cannot afford to be complacent.
Q: Which Round of 16 match is the biggest so far?
A: Canada vs. Morocco on July 2 is the standout — a co-host nation facing the team that eliminated the Netherlands. The atmosphere in Vancouver will be electric.
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